Light Ermine Moth
Common NameLight Ermine Moth
Scientific NameSpilosoma lubricipeda
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)41
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatGardens, hedgerows, woodland edges, grasslands, fens, marshes
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia, Japan
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, nettle, dock, bramble, honeysuckle, willow, birch
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in batches, hatching into hairy 'woolly bear' caterpillars that feed on a variety of plants before pupating in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the white forewings with numerous scattered black spots and wavy lines; the abdomen is typically yellow-orange with black spots (though not visible dorsally).
Description
A medium-sized, fluffy white moth with black antennae and legs, and distinct black spots and wavy lines on its white forewings.
